In 2011, Food and Drug Administration officials announced that they would investigate the safety of spray-on sunscreens, however, their study is not yet complete, nor have they issued any kind of recommendation. However, Consumer Reports recently issued their own warning, advising parents not to use these products on children.

People love the convenience of a spray-on product; it takes just minutes to apply, and it’s easier to rub in than thick lotion. But the Consumer Reports warning states that until the FDA has completed their analysis, these products should not be used on or by kids. Additionally, editors removed a sunscreen spray, Ocean Potion Kids Instant Dry Mist SPF 50, from the magazine’s list of recommended sunscreens because the product is marketed especially for children.

The anticipated FDA analysis is to determine whether titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and other chemicals used in sunscreens are more harmful in a spray form, since they are more likely to be inhaled. These chemicals have nanoparticles, known for causing developmental problems in animals. Lotion and stick forms of sunscreens have a more controllable application than spray formulas.

The American Academy of Dermatology also warns against the sprays, noting that it’s more difficult to tell whether you’ve used enough sunscreen to offer protection against sunburn. If you continue to use spray variations, their recommendation is to spray the product onto your hands first, then spread the lotion over any exposed areas; never spray around your face, nose, eyes, or mouth.

Vicki Clinebell majored in journalism at the University of Colorado and headed to an advertising agency before beginning a long career in broadcasting, spanning production and copywriting to Sales and Management for an ABC affiliate station.

Her decision to switch gears to pursue a career in writing fulfilled a lifelong ambition. She started as a blogger for a diverse group of businesses, and now writes for a number of digital publications for companies stationed in her hometown in the Rocky Mountains, and provides advertising copy and media buys for national and regional clients. She finds the research as intersting as the writing—she loves learning about subjects as diverse as construction scaffolding, child safety seats, and the newest trends in beauty and fashion.